Petrology Technician

Geological and mineral technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in the fields of oil and gas exploration and production, geophysics, petroleum engineering, geology, mining and mining engineering, mineralogy, extractive and physical metallurgy, metallurgical engineering and environmental protection. They are employed by petroleum and mining companies, consulting geology and engineering firms, and by governments and educational institutions as well as by a variety of manufacturing, construction and utilities companies.

Typical Duties:

• Manages the operations of a petrology laboratory;
• Coordinates the conduct of experiments in keeping with the mandate of a petrology laboratory or as a service to outside clients;
• Establishes priorities and ensures the quality of experiment results;
• Participates in the development of laboratory operational systems and procedures;
• Evaluates research project submissions and advises on their feasibility;
• Serves as a resource person to resolve problems and to provide technical guidance on work methods and the use of laboratory equipment;
• Prepares quotations for clients;
• Tests, modifies and, if necessary, repairs laboratory equipment;
• Assesses the need for new instruments;
• Maintains laboratory supply inventories;
• Develops research methodologies;
• Prepares rock specimens and thin sections for geological analysis;
• Ensures compliance with safety measures;
• Maintains records of activities undertaken and of research results.

Educational Requirements:

       Two-year college program in geological or chemical engineering technology